CRIME in Dorset rocketed by 14 per cent last year with violent crime up by more than a third, latest figures reveal.

The Force claims the rise is the result of more victims coming forward and better recording practices.

An increase has also been seen in the number of reports of child neglect.

Deputy Chief Constable James Vaughan said: "Our safeguarding activity and our victim-focused approach has led to more people coming forward to report crimes affecting the most vulnerable in the county.

"We make no excuse for encouraging people to report such crimes - whatever impact that has on statistics.

"I can reassure people that Dorset remains a safe place to live, work and visit. The officers and staff of Dorset Police are committed to ensuring it stays that way."

Acting Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Colin Pipe, added: "Ensuring that people feel confident reporting crime, whatever their situation, is a critical part of British policing.

"I am confident that the increase we are seeing is due to this enhanced trust, along with better recording practices, reflecting trends nationally.

"Reducing the overall number of victims of crime in Dorset is a long term objective of the Commissioner’s second term in office and Dorset Police will continue to adapt with the changing nature of policing to aim at achieving that."

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